Small portable looms have been used all over the world since the art of weaving fabric began centuries ago.
In April Margaret Tayti from Loomacy and Lace in Prince George has been invited by the Williams Lake Spinners, Weavers and Fibre Artists Guild to give a workshop on the art of weaving using small portable looms.
Linda Purjue said the guild members were so impressed with Tayti’s weaving demonstrations during the Medieval Market last November that they invited her to host a workshop in Williams Lake.
Tayti’s weaving demonstrations were part of the presentations by the Society for Creative Anachronism, best known for their jousting and medieval crafts.
The long narrow strips of decorative weaving Tayti demonstrated is called “narrow-goods” and is created on small portable looms.
The colourful ribbons of weaving are used to decorate the medieval costumes worn by society members.
Examples of the craft can also be seen used as guitar straps and straps for handmade bags.
Participants in the workshop will learn about weaving on portable rigid heddle looms, inkle looms and card looms.
“The method that intrigued me the most was the small rigid heddle,” Purjue says.
The most portable back-strap card looms can be made out of popsicle sticks or even cardboard, Purjue says.
“You can just roll them up and put them in your pocket and make beautiful ribbons wherever you go,” Purjue says.
There are 16 spaces available in the workshop that will take place at the Central Cariboo Arts Centre on Saturday, April 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
People who have equipment such as coloured pencils, scissors, a belt or sash, a sharp narrow tapestry needle, a thimble, and elastic hair ties should bring them along to the workshop.
The cost of the workshop is $30 per person and $20 for materials. To register call Linda Purjue at 250-392-7265.